Summary: Alarming rates of suicide among production farmers have prompted public health officials to increase the awareness and cultural understanding of providing holistic care for those in rural agricultural areas. Unique aspects of farm life and farming can contribute to higher levels of depressive symptoms and increased stress. Higher levels of depression, in addition to suicide, can also increase a farmer’s risk of injury and the development of chronic disease, impacting overall quality of life. The agrarian culture is one of strong work ethic, self-sufficiency, conservative views, and adherence to gender roles, which can make discussion of mental well-being distinctly different from clients who are not from the agrarian culture. The training module will seek to provide insight on the aspects of providing healthcare for farmers and farm families as it relates to the culture and occupational aspects of farming and farm life.

Objectives: By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Have a greater understanding of the agrarian culture.
2. Apply key concepts of the culture when proving healthcare for farmers and farm families.
3. Identify barriers of seeking mental wellness in a rural, agricultural community 

Funded through the generous support of:

Federal Office of Rural Health Policy